User manual

Table Of Contents
Holds and pauses
Different notations are used to show where the established rhythmic ow of the music is
interrupted, either with a moment of repose or a short silence, before continuing. The most
subtle effect is produced by a tenuto mark, with more signicant effects denoted with holds and
pauses.
The duration of the break in the music intended by the hold or pause does not need to be
specied. This leaves signicant room for interpretation, even though the different styles of
holds and pauses normally indicate larger or smaller breaks.
NOTE
Holds and pauses do not currently have an effect in playback, but this is planned for future
versions.
RELATED LINKS
Input methods for holds and pauses on page 247
Types of holds and pauses
There are three types of holds and pauses in Dorico SE, and they can all be input, moved, and
deleted in the same ways.
Fermatas
Fermatas indicate that a note is held for longer than its notated length, which applies
to the whole ensemble.
They are also known as “pauses” and informally sometimes called “birds’ eyes”.
Breath marks
Breath marks show suitable places for players to breathe, or suggest how the music is
phrased to create a similar effect.
Caesuras
Caesuras indicate that a note is sustained for its full value and is followed by a break in
sound before continuing.
Types of fermatas
There are different types of fermatas available in Dorico SE. Each fermata indicates a suggested
pause duration whilst leaving room for interpretation.
Fermata
Description
Very short fermata Indicates that a note is held only a fraction
longer than the rhythm indicates.
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Dorico SE 3.1.10